National Geographic Expeditions’ South American Discovery by Private Jet reimagines how travellers experience the continent. This carefully designed 14-day journey connects six countries and seven extraordinary destinations aboard a privately chartered aircraft, removing the usual complexities of multi-destination travel. By eliminating long layovers, unpredictable connections, and time lost to transit, the itinerary creates a seamless flow between ancient cities, dramatic natural wonders, and vibrant capitals. From the ruins of the Maya and the citadel of Machu Picchu to the cascades of Iguaçu Falls, every stop delivers a distinct sense of place while maintaining the comfort and efficiency that only private jet travel can provide.
Travellers are guided by experts who bring history, culture, and ecosystems to life, whether wandering through jungle-covered temples, tracing Inca stonework, or standing at the edge of one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. Evenings unfold in hand-selected accommodations ranging from colonial hotels to legendary resorts within national parks, ensuring that the sense of discovery continues beyond each day’s excursions. Together, these elements transform a complex continent into a cohesive journey, a South America private jet tour that balances adventure, comfort, and insight in equal measure.
Washington D.C., United States
The expedition begins at The Hay-Adams, positioned steps from the White House in America’s capital. This historic hotel provides the launching point for the South America private jet tour, with guests gathering for a welcome reception that introduces fellow travellers and expedition leaders. The evening serves as preparation for the journey ahead, offering briefings on destinations while allowing time to settle before departure. Washington’s monumental backdrop provides a fitting start to this global-scale adventure.
Tikal and Antigua, Guatemala
Guatemala marks the first international destination, with the private jet landing in Flores to access the legendary Maya city of Tikal. Deep within jungle surroundings, towering temples including the Temple of the Great Jaguar rise above the forest canopy. Archaeological guides reveal the city’s significance from over 1,000 years ago, while the sounds of howler monkeys and tropical birds create an atmospheric backdrop.
The journey continues to Antigua, where UNESCO World Heritage status protects cobblestoned streets and Baroque facades beneath volcanic peaks. Two full days allow exploration of colonial history through walking tours, with optional activities including Pacaya Volcano hikes, traditional cooking classes, and coffee plantation visits. Local markets showcase artisan work, while evenings unfold at the Porta Hotel Antigua.
Cusco and Machu Picchu, Peru
Peru’s ancient capital Cusco combines Inca foundations with Spanish colonial architecture, creating streets that tell centuries of history. The bohemian San Blas district houses artisan workshops, while nearby sites like Sacsayhuamán showcase massive stone construction techniques.
The Hiram Bingham train carries guests through the Sacred Valley to reach Machu Picchu, the 15th-century citadel that demonstrates Inca engineering prowess. Guided tours explore both the grandeur and mysteries of this mountaintop archaeological site. Alternative experiences include Lake Titicaca visits to floating reed islands and weaving communities, or Amazon rainforest excursions featuring canoe rides and nocturnal wildlife hikes.
Bariloche, Argentina
Argentina’s lake district presents alpine scenery where snow-capped Andes peaks reflect in glacial waters. Bariloche serves as the gateway to Patagonia’s outdoor experiences, offering striking contrasts to previous Andean highland destinations.
Activity options include kayaking across Lake Nahuel Huapi’s glassy surface, discovering hidden beaches and bays beneath Mount López. Hiking trails through Llao Llao Reserve wind through ancient coihue and cypress forests toward panoramic viewpoints. Ornithology enthusiasts can visit Estancia El Desafío to observe Andean condors, among the world’s largest flying birds. The hilltop Llao Llao Hotel provides evening accommodation with sweeping Patagonian vistas.
Iguaçu Falls, Brazil
The Argentina-Brazil border showcases one of nature’s most powerful displays, where 275 cascades create Iguaçu Falls through subtropical forest. Belmond Das Cataratas offers exclusive accommodation as the only hotel inside the national park, granting sunrise and sunset access unavailable to day visitors.
Two-day explorations cover viewing points from both countries, including Devil’s Throat where water plunges through a horseshoe-shaped chasm. The surrounding Atlantic Forest supports diverse wildlife including toucans, monkeys, and butterflies. Optional visits to Parque das Aves bird sanctuary complement the natural encounters between roaring waters and misty rainbows.
Bogotá, Colombia
Colombia’s capital blends historic preservation with contemporary energy, accessible via Monserrate Hill’s cable car for panoramic city views. The Candelaria district preserves colonial churches alongside colourful street murals, while the Gold Museum displays pre-Hispanic artefacts that reveal the region’s rich heritage.
The José Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden recreates ecosystems from Andean páramo to tropical cloud forest, offering quieter exploration between bustling market visits. The expedition concludes with a farewell dinner at Four Seasons Casa Medina, celebrating shared discoveries and newly formed friendships.
Houston, Texas, United States
The final destination brings travellers back to American soil, where the two-week adventure concludes in Houston. Guests depart with memories spanning ancient citadels, rainforest rivers, alpine lakes, and cascading waterfalls – the complete tapestry of experiences that define this South America private jet tour.
Quick summary
- 🛩️ Transport: Private jet expedition
- 📍 Countries: Six countries across Central and South America
- ⏰ Duration: 14 days
- 🏛️ Highlights: Machu Picchu, Iguaçu Falls, Tikal ruins
- ✈️ Departure: Washington D.C.
- 🏨 Accommodation: Luxury properties including Llao Llao Hotel and Belmond Das Cataratas
